Limmatquai seen from one of the bridges.
1 / 10

Limmatquai Zurich

4.8
·73 reviews·Zürich, Switzerland

Zurich's scenic riverside promenade, connecting historic Old Town charm with vibrant shopping and summer river activities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Perfect for river swimming & outdoor markets

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Limmatquai seen from one of the bridges.

Limmatquai Zurich

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Perfect for river swimming & outdoor markets

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Zurich's scenic riverside promenade, connecting historic Old Town charm with vibrant shopping and summer river activities.

4.8
(73 reviews)

"A beautiful street along the river providing a view of the 3 churches & the waterfront."

Vertical photo
TIP

🏊‍♀️ Swim Safely in the Limmat

Check water conditions & official advice before swimming. Popular spots include Oberer Letten & Dynamo.

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

Limmatquai is best explored by walking. Wear comfortable shoes to discover hidden gems.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Limmat River Swim

Limmat River Swim

Limmat River

Dive into the crystal-clear Limmat for a refreshing swim or a leisurely float. A quintessential Zurich summer experience!

Reddit
Old Town Charm

Old Town Charm

Altstadt (Old Town)

Wander through medieval streets, discover hidden courtyards, and admire historic architecture.

TikTok
Grossmünster Church

Grossmünster Church

Limmatquai

Iconic twin-towered Romanesque-style church offering panoramic city views from its towers.

TikTok
Bahnhofstrasse

Bahnhofstrasse

Limmatquai

One of the world's most exclusive shopping streets, perfect for window shopping or indulging in luxury.

TikTok
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Limmat River

Limmatquai is more than just a street; it's Zurich's vibrant riverside. In summer, locals and tourists alike flock to swim and float in the refreshing Limmat River. Check water conditions and official advice before diving in! Reddit

Walkable Wonders & Zurich Card

Limmatquai is best explored on foot, connecting you to Zurich's Old Town, historic churches, and scenic viewpoints. Consider the Zurich Card for unlimited public transport and free museum access, making your exploration budget-friendly. TikTok

Best Times

When
Summer afternoons
Why
Perfect for river swimming & outdoor markets
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, ideal for exploring
Crowd
Low
When
December evenings
Why
Festive Christmas markets
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Have you ever been to #zurich 🇨🇭#schweiz @Zurich Tourism #budgettravel #visitzurich #zurich_switzerland #switzerland #swiss #schweizer #schweizerdeutsch #zurichguide #traveltips #culturaldifference
@whereiswanda
43.1K likes • 920.5K views

🏊‍♀️ Swim Safely in the Limmat

Check water conditions & official advice before swimming. Popular spots include Oberer Letten & Dynamo. Reddit+1

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

Limmatquai is best explored by walking. Wear comfortable shoes to discover hidden gems. TikTok

Attempting Swiss traditions in Zurich 🇨🇭 Checkout öpfelchammer restaurant when you have the chance #creatorsearchinsights #thingstodo #traveldestinations #travel #traveltiktok #travelcreator
@jlovetravels
23.9K likes • 856K views
Local brand @on brings new energy to Zurich’s Limmatquai! ✨ Once a music shop, now a stunning flagship store celebrating Swiss design and performance. 🎁 GIVEAWAY 🎁 To celebrate we are giving away a gift card to pick your favorite pair of @on shoes! To enter: Follow @on & @calmaguide.zurich and comment below by tagging a friend you’d love to shop with. Step inside to experience innovation, sty...
calmaguide.zurich
1.3K likes • 64K views

💳 Get the Zurich Card

Save money with unlimited public transport & free museum entries. TikTok

🍫 Taste Local Delicacies

Sample Swiss chocolate and local treats from shops along the way. TikTok

On Flagship Store Zürich Limmatquai ist eröffnet! 🔥 Zürich hat seit diesem Weekend seinen eigenen On Flagship Store. 🙌🏼 Wir waren vor Ort am Opening – ein Besuch lohnt sich! 😍 @on #dreamon #flagshipstore #opening #zurich #limmatquai
swissskiteam
942 likes • 55.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🏊‍♀️ Swim Safely in the Limmat

Check water conditions & official advice before swimming. Popular spots include Oberer Letten & Dynamo. Reddit+1

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

Limmatquai is best explored by walking. Wear comfortable shoes to discover hidden gems. TikTok

💳 Get the Zurich Card

Save money with unlimited public transport & free museum entries. TikTok

🍫 Taste Local Delicacies

Sample Swiss chocolate and local treats from shops along the way. TikTok

📸 Capture Iconic Views

Don't miss the views of the three churches and the river from Münsterbrücke Bridge. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(73 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Limmatquai is celebrated for its picturesque riverside setting, offering a beautiful blend of historic architecture and vibrant city life. Visitors love the opportunity to swim in the Limmat during summer and the convenience of being close to shops, restaurants, and cultural sites. While generally well-regarded, some find the area can be quite crowded during peak times.

"The center of Zurich on the river adds to the beauty of this old city very well preserved. It’s enough just to sit by the water enjoying the view and the freshness of the river on a sunny day. Close to restaurants, churches and shops so tourists can make a pleasant break during sightseeing. Walking along the river is always recommended!"

Mirjana Mitrovic

"Very unique street and area along Limmat river - it's right by the rathaus, and an outdoor market on the bridge. Plenty of things to see here, especially in the old town for tourists - churches, shops, local delicacies."

Mat Bienczyk

"Beautiful street along the river"

Toan Vo

What People Like

Beautiful riverside views
Summer river swimming
Proximity to Old Town

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Limmatquai is easily accessible by public transport. Numerous tram lines stop directly along the quay, making it a central hub. If you're arriving by train, Zurich Hauptbahnhof (main station) is a short walk away. TikTok

Yes, Limmatquai is very walkable from Zurich Hauptbahnhof. It's a pleasant 10-15 minute stroll along the river, offering scenic views as you approach the heart of the city. TikTok

The best way to explore Limmatquai is on foot to soak in the atmosphere and discover its many charming corners. For longer distances or to reach viewpoints, the efficient tram system is excellent. TikTok

Parking in Zurich city center can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport. If you must drive, there are several underground parking garages available, such as the one at the Opera House or near the main station. TikTok

The Polybahn funicular connects the Central square to the ETH Zurich terrace, offering great views. While not directly on Limmatquai, it's a short walk down to the quay from the Central station. The Zurich Card covers the Polybahn. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, walking along Limmatquai and exploring the riverside promenade is completely free. You can enjoy the views, atmosphere, and many sights without any admission fees. TikTok

While entry to the main areas of churches like Grossmünster and Fraumünster is often free, there might be a small fee to climb the towers for panoramic views. Check the specific church websites for current pricing. TikTok

If you plan to visit museums, use public transport extensively, or take the Polybahn, the Zurich Card can be very cost-effective. It offers unlimited travel and free entry to many attractions. TikTok

Shops on Limmatquai generally follow typical European retail hours, usually opening around 9 or 10 AM and closing between 6 and 8 PM on weekdays. Some may have shorter hours on Saturdays and be closed on Sundays. TikTok

Yes, swimming in the Limmat is a popular summer activity! There are designated 'Badis' (swimming areas) like Oberer Letten and Unterer Letten. Always check water quality and safety advisories before swimming. Reddit+1

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Key sights include the Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches, the Rathaus (City Hall), the Lindenhof hill for city views, and the bustling Bahnhofstrasse for shopping. The river itself is a major attraction. TikTok+1

In summer, swimming and floating down the Limmat River is a highlight. You can also enjoy outdoor cafes, stroll along the promenade, and visit the riverside markets. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Lindenhof hill offers fantastic panoramic views of the Old Town and the Limmat River. The towers of Grossmünster church also provide breathtaking vistas. TikTok+1

Limmatquai features a mix of luxury boutiques on Bahnhofstrasse, souvenir shops, local artisan stores, and department stores like Coop. You'll also find plenty of cafes and restaurants. TikTok

Limmatquai can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season, summer weekends, and around Christmas markets. Visiting on weekday mornings can offer a more relaxed experience. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Limmatquai and the surrounding Old Town offer a wide range of dining options, from traditional Swiss restaurants to international cuisine and casual cafes. Try local specialties like Zürcher Geschnetzeltes. TikTok

Yes, while Zurich can be expensive, you can find more affordable options. Look for bakeries, Imbiss stands, or supermarkets like Coop for sandwiches and snacks. The Zurich Card can sometimes offer discounts at restaurants. TikTok+1

For a unique experience, consider trying a traditional Swiss restaurant like Zeughauskeller or the quirky Öpfelchammer, known for its historic charm and a unique drinking tradition. TikTok

Many restaurants in Zurich are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. K-Street Toast, for example, has a vegan option with kimchi and eggs. TikTok

Zurich is a chocolate paradise! Look for renowned Swiss brands like Lindt, Sprüngli, and Läderach. Many shops along Limmatquai offer a wide selection of pralines and bars. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the iconic view of the Grossmünster, Fraumünster, and Wasserkirche from the Münsterbrücke Bridge. Lindenhof hill offers a stunning panoramic cityscape. TikTok+1

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful soft light for photography. Early mornings also provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. TikTok

Yes, explore the medieval Augustiner Gasse for its picturesque old houses and charming details. The Lindenhof hill itself is a historic site with great photographic potential. TikTok

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide cityscapes and street details. A wide-angle lens is useful for the churches and narrow alleys. Don't forget a polarizing filter for the river. Instagram

Photography rules can vary inside churches. It's best to check for signage or ask permission before taking photos, especially if flash is involved, to respect the sacred space. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Limmatquai offers a family-friendly experience with plenty to see and do. Kids will enjoy watching the boats on the Limmat and perhaps even trying a supervised swim in designated areas during summer. Reddit The Old Town's winding streets can feel like an adventure, and the Lindenhof hill provides a great spot for a picnic with a view. TikTok Consider visiting the Lindt Home of Chocolate museum for an interactive and delicious experience that's sure to be a hit with all ages. TikTok

For a budget-conscious family outing, pack your own snacks and drinks from a supermarket like Coop. TikTok The Zurich Card can also be beneficial, offering free public transport and access to various museums that might appeal to younger visitors. TikTok Keep an eye out for any street performers or small markets that often pop up along the quay, adding to the lively atmosphere.

💰 Budget Travelers

Zurich can be expensive, but Limmatquai offers several budget-friendly opportunities. Walking along the quay, exploring the Old Town, and enjoying the views from Lindenhof hill are all free activities. TikTok In summer, swimming in the Limmat is a fantastic and cost-effective way to cool off. Reddit Pack your own picnic from a local supermarket like Coop to save on dining costs. TikTok

Consider purchasing the Zurich Card if you plan to visit multiple museums or use public transport frequently, as it can offer significant savings. TikTok Look for casual eateries, bakeries, or 'Imbiss' stands for more affordable meal options. TikTok Many of the most iconic sights, like the Grossmünster church exterior and the charming streets, don't require an entrance fee. TikTok

💖 Couples

Limmatquai provides a romantic backdrop for couples, especially during sunset. Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand along the river, taking in the illuminated churches and city lights. TikTok Consider a boat trip on the Limmat for a different perspective of the city. Reddit The Old Town's intimate alleys and charming cafes offer perfect spots for quiet conversation and enjoying Swiss delicacies like chocolate or fondue. TikTok+1

For a unique experience, try the traditional drinking challenge at Öpfelchammer restaurant, or simply find a cozy riverside cafe to share a coffee and watch the world go by. TikTok The views from Lindenhof hill are particularly stunning for a shared moment overlooking the city. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Swimming and Floating in the Limmat

The Limmat River transforms into Zurich's natural swimming pool during the warmer months. Locals embrace the tradition of floating down the river, often with a 'Wickelfisch' (waterproof bag for belongings). Popular entry points include Oberer Letten and Unterer Letten, and even Dynamo or Wipkingerpark. Reddit+1 It's crucial to check official city advisories for water quality and flow conditions before embarking on a float, especially after heavy rainfall, as debris can accumulate. Reddit While the lake offers warmer water, the Limmat provides a unique, refreshing experience for those seeking an urban aquatic adventure. Reddit

Safety is paramount when swimming in the Limmat. While it's a popular activity, the river's currents can be strong, and there have been instances of accidents. Reddit It's recommended to be a confident swimmer and to be aware of your surroundings. The annual Limmatschwimmen event, a popular organized swim, usually takes place in August, but tickets sell out quickly and it can be postponed due to weather. Reddit

For those looking for a more relaxed experience, consider using an inflatable raft or a SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard). Entry points like GZ Wipkingen and exits at Bahnhof Dietikon are common for longer floats. Reddit Remember to pack essentials in a waterproof bag and be prepared for a refreshing, albeit sometimes chilly, dip, especially in early summer. Reddit

Exploring Zurich's Old Town (Altstadt)

Limmatquai serves as a gateway to Zurich's enchanting Altstadt, or Old Town. This historic district is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and charming squares. Wander through narrow alleys like Augustiner Gasse, known for its beautifully preserved guild houses and picturesque facades. TikTok You'll find an abundance of independent boutiques, artisan shops, and traditional Swiss restaurants tucked away in this historic quarter. TikTok

Key landmarks within the Old Town include the imposing Grossmünster church with its iconic twin towers, and the elegant Fraumünster church, famous for its Chagall windows. Climbing the towers of Grossmünster offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Limmat River, and Lake Zurich. TikTok Don't miss the Lindenhof hill, a tranquil oasis offering a historical perspective and stunning vistas over the Limmatquai and the bustling city below. TikTok

Exploring the Old Town is best done on foot, allowing you to discover its hidden courtyards and soak in the centuries of history. Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestones can be uneven. The area is particularly magical during festive seasons, with Christmas markets adding a warm glow to the ancient streets. TikTok

Shopping on Bahnhofstrasse

Adjacent to Limmatquai, Bahnhofstrasse is renowned as one of the world's most exclusive and expensive shopping streets. This elegant boulevard is lined with flagship stores of international luxury brands, high-end jewelers, and renowned Swiss watchmakers. TikTok It's a destination for those seeking designer fashion, exquisite timepieces, and premium accessories. Even if luxury shopping isn't on your agenda, a stroll down Bahnhofstrasse offers a glimpse into Zurich's affluent side and impressive window displays. TikTok

Beyond the high-end offerings, you'll also find department stores like Coop, which is a great place to pick up Swiss souvenirs, local snacks, and the popular Rivella drink. TikTok The street is also home to several banks and financial institutions, reflecting Zurich's status as a global financial center. TikTok

Bahnhofstrasse is easily accessible from Limmatquai and is a central point for many of Zurich's public transport routes, making it convenient to visit before or after exploring the riverside. TikTok

You may also like

1 of 2